Henri Fr�d�ric Amiel

Switzerland
27 Sep 1821 // 11 May 1881
Philosopher / Poet / Critic

Quotes

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Thought is a kind of opium; it can intoxicate us, while still broad awake; it can make transparent the mountains and everything that exists
There is no respect for others without humility in one's self
The test of every religious, political, or educational system is the man that it forms
The only substance properly so called is the soul
The man who insists on seeing with perfect clearness before he decides, never decides
The man who has no inner-life is a slave to his surroundings
The fire which enlightens is the same fire which consumes
Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude. Gratitude is the completion of thankfulness. Thankfulness may consist merely of words. Gratitude is shown in acts
Tell me what you feel in your room when the full moon is shining in upon you and your lamp is dying out, and I will tell you how old you are, and I shall know if you are happy
Tears are the symbol of the inability of the soul to restrain its emotion and retain its self command
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On Anger: "For every minute you remain angry, you give up sixty seconds of peace of mind."
Essays
On Destiny: "Our destiny exercises its influence over us even when, as yet, we have not learned its nature: it is our future that lays down the law of our today."
Human, All Too Human
On Friendship: "A crowd is not company; and faces are but a gallery of pictures; and talk but a tinkling cymbal, where there is no love."
Essays